Under the new clauses inserted by the Fair Work Commission into 112 modern awards earlier this year, employees can now cash out two weeks’ work of accrued annual leave every 12 months - on the priviso they still have four weeks remaining afterwards.

The deal is, the employee and employer must agree to the payout in writing and the amount must not be less than would have been made payable had the leave been taken at the time the payment is made.

Businesses are happy for the changes to occur, as it allows for more flexible working arrangements - however trade unions have an issue.

They have warned that the move could lead to workplace conditions being eroded.